Caretaker PM performs duties at military office

BANGKOK, Jan 22 - Protesters from the People's Democratic Reform Committee have blocked the road at the Office of the Defence Permanent Secretary in Muang Thong Thani, on the outskirts of Bangkok, as Caretaker Premier Yingluck Shinawatra is carrying on her customary duties there.

Ms Yingluck arrived at her temporary office this morning amid tight security. The premises have been protected by two layers of barbed wire. Ms Yingluck refused to be interviewed by the media.

Asked whether political issues still give her stress, the caretaker premier smiled and walked into the building without comment.

Later at 10.30am, a group of People’s Democratic Reform Committee (PDRC) protesters, led by leaders Puttipong Punnakan, Chumpol Julasai and Sakolthee Pattiyakul arrived and delivered speeches against

government there. Military officers were seen waving and greeting the protesters through the main gate and building windows. The protesters, however, were prohibited from entering the premise.

Mr Puttipong said the purpose of today's gathering was to support the military. He called on the military not to let the caretaker government use its office for media interviews and as the headquarters of the Centre for the Administration of Peace.

All entrances have reportedly been closed since the PDRC protesters arrived this morning. The caretaker premier is still working inside, amid tight security. Additional police have been deployed in the area

to ensure peace and order, though protesters drove them away to the back of the building. No violence has been reported so far.